Cuba: Cross out Carnival

Upon receiving permission to launch cruises to Cuba two weeks ago, Carnival had expected the Castro government would lift its restriction on Cuban-born Americans who arrive by sea, as it has for those who arrive by air. Now, the company is trying to negotiate the policy change. “We believe we have a much better chance in helping to effect that change by working within the current boundaries of the policy while engaged in an active commercial agreement,” it said in a statement.

The Sun-Sentinel found out after-the-fact (emphasis added),

For those of us who have supported President Obama‘s decision to re-engage Cuba after 54 years of failed policies, it’s again disappointing that Raul Castro refuses to move more quickly in breaking down even small barriers, like this one. Instead, it’s feared protests over this policy — and editorials like this one — will cause Castro to dig in his heels.

The policies failed because the Communist oppressors wanted them to fail, for the past half century. Or, as Capt. Louis said, “I am shocked!” they are not interested in, as the Sun-Sentinel phrased it, “breaking down even small barriers.”

Makes you wonder how much palm-greasing would be needed for relaxing those “even small barriers.”